Emergency: System Test

The University has started an Alert Carolina emergency sirens TEST. This is only a test. No action is required.

The University tests the sirens to remind everyone what to do if they hear the sirens sound for a real emergency and to make sure the equipment works properly.

During the test, anyone outside on or near campus likely will hear the sirens. The sirens are not designed to be heard inside a building or vehicle. The sirens will sound an alert tone along with a brief pre-recorded voice message.

The sirens sound only for a major emergency or an immediate safety or health threat such as:

  • An armed and dangerous person on or near campus;
  • A major fire or hazardous material incident;
  • A tornado warning for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area issued by the National Weather Service; or
  • A different emergency, as determined by the Department of Public Safety.

In the event of a real emergency, University police advises all students, faculty and staff to:

  •  Go inside immediately.
  •  Close windows and doors.
  •  Stay until further notice.
  •  Follow directions from emergency responders or University officials.

 

The University also sends a text message to cell phone users who registered their numbers in the online Alert Carolina Contact Information page available through the ONYEN services website. The University will post safety-related announcements on this website, along with updates.